What To Know
- The Instant Pot’s unique design allows for even cooking, resulting in a crispy golden-brown exterior while maintaining a moist and tender interior.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and broil in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is crispy.
- A refreshing coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing balances the richness of fried chicken.
The Instant Pot has revolutionized the culinary landscape, offering a myriad of time-saving and convenient cooking methods. One of its lesser-known capabilities is the ability to fry chicken, producing crispy and succulent results that rival traditional frying techniques. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the art of Instant Pot fried chicken, uncovering its benefits, techniques, and delectable flavors.
Benefits of Instant Pot Fried Chicken
Crispy Exterior, Juicy Interior: The Instant Pot’s unique design allows for even cooking, resulting in a crispy golden-brown exterior while maintaining a moist and tender interior.
Time-Saving: Compared to traditional frying, Instant Pot fried chicken significantly reduces cooking time, freeing up your schedule for other culinary adventures.
Healthier Alternative: By using less oil than traditional frying, Instant Pot fried chicken offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste or texture.
Ingredients and Preparation
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons seasoned salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 cup vegetable oil
Preparation:
1. Season the Chicken: Combine the flour and seasonings in a large bowl. Toss the chicken pieces in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
2. Add Oil to Instant Pot: Pour the vegetable oil into the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Heat the oil until shimmering.
Cooking Techniques
Air Fryer Lid Method:
1. Place Chicken on Lid: Arrange the chicken pieces on the Instant Pot’s air fryer lid.
2. Cook: Select the “Air Fry” function and set the temperature to 400°F (200°C). Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Trivet Method:
1. Place Trivet in Pot: Insert the trivet into the Instant Pot.
2. Arrange Chicken: Arrange the chicken pieces on top of the trivet.
3. Cook: Select the “Pressure Cook” function and set the time to 10 minutes on high pressure.
4. Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release the remaining pressure.
5. Broil: Remove the chicken from the pot and broil in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is crispy.
Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Fried Chicken
- Use a Sharp Knife: Cutting the chicken into even pieces ensures uniform cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Cooking too many pieces at once can result in uneven browning.
- Shake the Chicken: Periodically shake the chicken during cooking to prevent sticking.
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooking can dry out the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Sauce and Seasoning Options
Honey Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon sesame oil. Brush the sauce over the cooked chicken.
Buffalo Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup hot sauce, 1/4 cup melted butter, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes. Drizzle the sauce over the cooked chicken.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce to brush over the cooked chicken.
Side Dish Pairings
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting and flavorful accompaniment to crispy fried chicken.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing balances the richness of fried chicken.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans add a classic touch to the meal.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I use frozen chicken in the Instant Pot?
A: Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time. Add 5-7 minutes to the cooking time for frozen chicken.
Q: How do I clean the Instant Pot after frying chicken?
A: Remove the oil and chicken pieces from the pot. Pour a cup of hot water into the pot and select the “Sauté” function. Use a wooden spoon to scrape any remaining food particles from the bottom of the pot.
Q: Can I reuse the oil from frying chicken?
A: No, it is not recommended to reuse oil from frying chicken. Used oil can contain harmful compounds and should be discarded.
